
Parkinson’s disease is widely recognized for its impact on movement, but did you know it may also affect hearing? While more research still needs to be done, recent studies have found a potential link between Parkinson’s disease and hearing loss. Early detection of hearing difficulties can play a crucial role in helping individuals with Parkinson’s maintain quality of life, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
The Connection Between Parkinson’s Disease and Hearing Loss
A recent study conducted by the VA Portland Health Care System and Oregon Health & Science University found that veterans with a history of hearing loss had an increased risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. Researchers believe that hearing impairment may not only be an early indicator of Parkinson’s but also contribute to cognitive decline and social withdrawal, both of which can exacerbate Parkinson’s symptoms.
You can read further details from this groundbreaking study here: Study Finds Link Between Hearing Loss and Parkinson’s Disease in Veterans
Common Hearing Loss Symptoms in People with Parkinson’s Disease
Hearing loss often develops gradually, making it easy to overlook in its early stages. For individuals with Parkinson’s, these symptoms can be mistaken for other cognitive or neurological issues. Here are some common signs to watch for:
- Difficulty Understanding Conversations: Struggling to follow conversations, especially in noisy environments, is a common early symptom of hearing loss.
- Frequently Asking Others to Repeat Themselves: If you or a loved one regularly need others to speak louder or repeat what they say, it may indicate hearing loss.
- Muffled or Distorted Sounds: Voices and sounds may seem less clear or as if people are mumbling.
- Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears): Persistent ringing, buzzing, or hissing sounds can be an early warning sign of hearing damage.
- Increasing Volume on Devices: Watching TV or listening to music at higher-than-usual volumes may indicate reduced hearing ability.
- Withdrawal from Social Situations: Difficulty hearing can make conversations frustrating, leading to isolation and reduced participation in social activities.
How Audiologists Can Help Manage Hearing Loss
If you or a loved one with Parkinson’s disease is experiencing signs of hearing loss, seeking help from an audiologist is essential. Audiologists can:
- Conduct Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations: A thorough hearing test can help to determine both the type and extent of hearing loss present. Then, an audiologist can determine the best course of treatment for optimal outcomes.
Related Article: Understanding the Different Types of Hearing Loss
- Recommend Hearing Aids or Assistive Listening Devices: Many hearing loss treatment plans include the use of hearing aids or other amplification devices. Although over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids are now available in most places, prescription hearing aids from an audiologist are specifically tailored to your unique hearing needs and often produce better results.
Related Article: OTC vs. Prescription Hearing Aids: A Complete Buyer’s Guide
- Offer Communication Tips: Living with hearing loss can be challenging, both for the individual who has it as well as their friends and family. An audiologist can provide strategies to improve communication and enhance social interactions so hearing changes don’t have to lead to a lower quality of life.
Related Article: How to Communicate Effectively with Loved Ones Who Have Hearing Loss
- Provide Ongoing Support: Just like other aspects of health, hearing can, and will, change over time. An audiologist will help to monitor those changes and adjust hearing aids or other devices to ensure they continue to meet your hearing needs.
Take an Active Role in Your Own Hearing Health: Work with Our Mesa or Scottsdale Audiologists Today
Hearing loss can significantly impact the quality of life for those with or without Parkinson’s disease, but early intervention can make a difference. If you suspect you have hearing loss, don’t wait! Schedule a hearing evaluation with our audiologists in Mesa or Scottsdale, AZ today. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized hearing solutions to help you stay connected and engaged in life.
Take the first step toward better hearing health today so you can hear well and live well. Contact us to schedule your appointment!